Procurement is the processing of acquiring new products or services. It is a fancy name for obtaining or getting. The phrase has been used mostly by the Military. It took a new meaning once it became part of the supply chain and logistics arena.

Products could be procured or acquired locally or internationally. For a business to continue to thrive it has to constantly look for new products. The demand for new products by consumers continues to put pressure on companies to reach out to various manufacturers all over the world for new products.

International 3PL Procurement Services

As a Third Party Logistics Company, International 3PL, through its contract logistics division has decided to offer procurement services at no charge for its existing Order Fulfillment clients.

Let us assume that you are a company based in Colorado who handles distribution of cellular phone accessories and you are looking for new cutting edge technology, most likely you would search the Internet for new vendors from all over the world.

Most likely, you will strike gold and find what your looking for. In this case we can assist you in the  Freight Forwarding part of the shipment, customs clearance and delivery to your own warehouse or our warehouse.

In other cases, you are not that lucky and you can not find the right product. This is where we come in. We will source the product for you, make sure is what you are looking for and help you negotiate the agreement with your vendor.

The Logistics of Procurement

• We will find the product you need.
• Verify it matches the specifications you have spelled out
• Make sure the source is legitimate and in compliance with al local and international regulations.
• Make sure that the product is labeled according to requirement.
• If needed we can oversee the financial transaction.
• Arrange for Ocean or Air shipping, customs clearance and compliance.
• If asked, we can get involved with dispute resolution.

Our Contract logistics division located at 3500 NW 114th Avenue has been offering procurement services successfully to many of the local businesses.

resources:

Contract Logistics

4PL Companies

Freight Forwarders in Miami

TPL is an acronym for third party logistics. “Third–party logistics (abbreviated 3PL, or sometimes TPL) in logistics and supply chain management is a company’s use of third–party businesses to outsource elements of the company’s distribution and fulfillment services.”

When looking to outsource all or part of a company’s logistics function it is important to look for a third party logistics provider with proven expertise. To put it simply, third party logistics or “3PL” is the integration of a company’s shipping, warehousing, distribution, transportation, and related logistics services through an outsourced or “third party” partnership. We provide our clients with powerful logistics solutions involving people, technology and location working together to provide integrated, full service supply chain management.

With comprehensive 3PL services; supply chain efficiency, customer satisfaction and brand value growth come together to benefit you. We bridge the gap between your goods and your customers.

We Specialize in designing efficient and cost effective logistics solutions customized to client’s specific needs. This allows you to focus on core competencies and receive a logistical advantage over the competition through the use of TPL’s professional third party logistics services.

Advantages of TPL Companies include:

• Allows flexibility to expand and contract inventory levels
• Enhanced technology and supply chain visibility
• Improved customer service offerings
• Allows companies to focus on core competencies
• A more strategic and scientific approach to logistics challenges
• Lower or eliminate capital expenditures associated with equipment and facilities.

TPL Companies offer a variety of value-added services to enhance customer’s warehousing and transportation programs including: kitting and final assembly, labeling, shrink wrapping, and pick/pack services.
Site Selection
We leverage expansive networks and industry knowledge to aid Customers in selecting a strategically placed warehouse site that is optimal for your specific distribution program.

Rate Assessment
By conducting a formal examination on client shipment history and rates in historical lanes of service our transportation analysts can cut cost out of your transportation program.

Inventory Management
Our best in class approach to inventory management insures a quantifiable inventory accuracy of 99.9%.

Vendor Management
For customers that wish to keep their own carriers in conjunction with, or in place of, We offer assistance in managing load planning activities and carrier performance.

Freight Management
We work with hand-selected carriers who have formed strong partnerships with International 3PL offering the best service when it comes to Ocean, air or inland transportation.

Some of the services offered by TPL Companies:

Ocean Freight Services

Air Freight Services

Shipping consolidation

Warehousing

Inland Transportation

Full truckload shipping is the movement of at least the amount of freight necessary to fill an entire semi-trailer or intermodal container.

From origin to final destination, we’ll coordinate your truckload shipment needs every step of the way. Dry or refrigerated, hazmat, bulk or flatbed, you can rely on our years of experience in inland transportation With our  large network carriers and a team dedicated to provide the best service, you will have peace of mind when you’re shipping truckloads.

Why Truckload shipping is a breeze with International 3PL:

Our Experts will handle all of your truckload needs . We will use our industry knowledge to find innovative solutions that produce lasting results for your bottom line. We enable your business to build more effective supply chains.

Best rates in the industry.
Fast and reliable service
Extensive capacity options throughout the U.S. and around the globe
Track and trace capabilities every step of the way.
Fast response times from a single point of contact who understands your business
A free freight analysis
Spot shipments
Dedicated lanes
Specialized freight movements on dry van, flatbed, refrigerated trailers
Open 6 days a week.

We offer integrated solutions for all your transportation needs. We will pick up your shipment from the port, bring to one of our warehouses, load onto a full van and deliver to the customer without any trouble.

International 3pl makes truckload shipping quick and simple, offering affordable quotes for all your dedicated trucking needs. Request a freight quote today and one of our account managers will provide the best freight rates from our network of thousands of truckload carriers.

As third party logistics providers, we understand the need for total transparency that is why we make sure that you are well informed of the process.

You save time, money and headaches. No matter how large or difficult your load is, we got you covered. Start your truckload quote below.

End to end Logistics Solutions ensures the comprehensive completion of work and is typically managed within a specified timeframe. Internal procedures at a company often lay out a process for end-to-end management using the most efficient and timely approach to manufacture goods or complete a service.

With end to end logistics planning, you wouldn’t need to worry. You will be able to respond quickly to road disruptions, vehicle breakdowns, port congestions, brutal weather conditions, and driver shortages. But responding to disruptions is just one small part of the big prize.

Our work identifies the most effective supply chain for your individual products by exploring every option available end-to-end. We build our solutions around our core services of Air Freight, Ocean Freight and Logistics to facilitate a seamless execution.

How do our end to end logistics solutions work:

Let us assume that you distribute Televisions in the USA, The following outlines our activities to make sure your product is delivered in a timely manner:

Contact your vendor to make him aware that we will be handling the shipment.

Inspect the goods to make sure they meet your requirements.

Make the booking and ship cargo to our warehouse

File for customs clearance complying with regulations.

Deliver to our warehouse

Verify quantities, Check labels

Receive into our inventory management system.

Deliver Products to your customer as per your request

Handle returns if necessary.

We work with different types of businesses handling a wide range of products. We help our customers focus on sales and marketing while making sure the products are delivered on time.

Our philosophy is to eliminate as many layers and steps as possible to optimize performance and efficiency. We insure the comprehensive completion of work within a specified timeframe. As a result, our services are sought by many companies small to large.

Contact us for more details

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4PL Companies

7PL Companies

If you are involved in international trade, you probably are looking for an international logistics solutions provider. Shipping a product overseas as part of a commercial transaction, the exporter must be aware of packing, labeling, documentation, and insurance requirements.

Many importers rely on an international freight forwarder to perform these services. Some companies require more than just transportation, that is why they employ the services of an International logistics Service provider to help streamline the process.

International Logistics Solutions is:

That part of the supply chain involved with the planning, implementing and controlling of the efficient, effective flow and storage of goods, services, and related information from point of origin to point of consumption for the purpose of conforming to customer requirements.

Your International Trading Partners are Closer Than You Think with 7PL Logistics.

7Pl Logistics is an international logistics provider with customers ranging from Fortune 500 companies to small businesses. We pride ourselves on delivering completely end to end logistics solutions no matter the industry.

Our approach to Logistics Solutions

• Logistics Cost Control through dynamic shipment routing, premium freight management, and market competitive rates.
• Accountability managing effective network design, including carrier and supplier compliance with root cause and corrective actions.
• Visibility via web based solution to your global shipments, including dashboard reporting.
• Flexibility with our forwarder neutral model. We match the best service provider for your needs to match capacity with capability.
• Cost Savings with the implementation of lean tools to your fulfillment stream to reduce waste.
• Accountability managing effective network design, including carrier and supplier compliance with root cause and corrective actions.
• Visibility via web based solution to your global shipments, including dashboard reporting.
• Flexibility with our forwarder neutral model. We match the best service provider for your needs to match capacity with capability.
• Cost Savings with the implementation of lean tools to your fulfillment stream to reduce waste.

The number of businesses opening their doors to the global market is steadily increasing and customers now expect to have access to products no matter where they come from. Expectations have grown high and they are more likely to buy from merchants who offer shipping options that balance speed and cost.

7PL is the natural Evolution of 3 PL and 4 PL.

What is a 3 PL

3PL + 4PL= 7PL. The need for an outside logistics provider triggered the evolution of 3PL services which has been the most dominant and arguably the largest market in the world. 3PLs offered great advantages to the companies in terms of

• Economies of scale (merits from large truck fleets, warehouses, etc.)
• Access to world class processes and technologies
• Access to the resources not available in-house
• Risk sharing
• Adaptability to business changes

With all these advantages companies had better focus on their core competencies. However competition further intensified when they had all the time to focus on better competing.

What is 4PL

When competition intensified, globalization reached the peak and world looked so flat that the services provided by 3PLs seemed just not enough. This created an opportunity for the rise of 4PLs, a non asset based service provider assists companies by integrating resources, capabilities and technology of its own and coordinate with various 3PLs (Transportation, warehousing, air freight, shipping, customs clearing etc) along with load planning, tracking, shipment consolidating, carrier performance management, billing and payments etc. 4PL provides a comprehensive supply chain solution in package that in turn helps companies manage complexity and time as well.

While companies thrive for better results in the bottom line and more value and better impact on the entire supply chain, a new concept is taking birth & it’s called 7PL!

What is 7PL

Its 3PL+4PL=7PL. Yes it is the combination of 3PLs with 4PL i.e. one service provider can provide a client with both 3PL and the services of 4PL. 7PL overseas the entire logistics system, where all the services are provided under one roof. This gives customers an easy way to deal with 7PL under one contract, one bill and single point of contact to manage entire logistics.

7PL is being used to describe a turnkey solution where instead of dealing with several people for various services like inbound, outbound and warehousing, The concept is ‘one contract, one bill’. 7PL is the combination of 3PL and 4PL into one (3PL + 4PL = 7PL). One logistics service provider provides a client with both 3PL and 4PL services under one roof. 7PL is referred to as a turnkey solution where instead of dealing with several people for various logistics services like inbound, outbound and warehousing, clients deal with one person under the ‘one contract, one bill’ concept.

Third party logistics providers (3PL) are a becoming an important part of today’s supply chain. These companies offer services that can allow businesses to outsource part or all of their supply chain management activities. Many 3PL companies offer a wide range of services including; inbound freight, freight consolidation, warehousing, distribution, order fulfillment and outbound freight.
many freight forwarding companies have evolved into third party logistics companies in order to be able to attract more businesses by introducing value added services which they outsource themselves to other providers.

The growth of 3PL companies has been driven by the need for businesses to become leaner, more efficient reducing assets and allowing focus on core business processes.

Selecting A Third Party Logistics Provider

Deciding to a use a third party logistics company is a decision that depends on a many of factors that differ from business to business and from location to location. The decision to outsource certain business functions will depend on the company’s plans; future objectives, product lines, expansion, acquisitions, etc.

Once a decision has been made to outsource certain processes then a company will begin a search for the right 3PL that fits all their requirements at the best possible price. There are three types of Third Party Logistics Providers or companies that operate today.

• Asset Based
• Management Based
• Integrated Providers

Asset based third party logistics companies use their own trucks, warehouses and personnel to operate their business. Management based companies provide the technological and managerial functions to operate the logistics functions of their clients, but do so using the assets of other companies and do not necessarily own any assets. The third category, Integrated Providers, can either be asset based or management based companies that supplement their services with whatever services are needed by their clients.

When selecting a 3PL, the request for information (RFI) or quotation (RFQ) should be as detailed as possible. The company that is selected should be able to fulfill all the logistics requirements and that can only be assured if every requirement is communicated to potential companies. The RFI should include a detailed description of the areas to be outsourced. This will usually include:

• The scope of the contract, including locations, facilities, departments.
• Information on volumes involved; number of deliveries, warehouse sizes, number of items, etc.
• The logistics tasks are to be performed, e.g. warehousing, transportation, etc.
• The level of performance required.

After the bids have been received by a company from the prospective third party logistics providers, an evaluation would take place where a multi-discipline team will review each bid based on a pre-defined set of criteria. These will include some of the following.

• Does the 3PL provide the services required?
• Does the 3PL have the technology required to perform the tasks required?
• Does the company have the required warehouse space, dock capacity, warehouse personnel, etc.?
• Is the 3PL financially sound?
• Are the 3PL’s geographical locations suitable to cover the network?
• Does the 3PL have the flexibility to respond to changes?
• Are the 3PL’s environmental policies compatible?
• Are the costs of the services detailed enough for comparison to other bids?
• Are the customer references acceptable?
• Is the 3PL a good cultural fit?

Understanding the Difference between 3PL Providers and Freight Forwarders

In the world of global transport, understanding the differences between supply chain management, freight forwarders and 3PL Providers (3PL) is key. In order to make the best decisions for a company’s transportation and supply chain needs, knowing the difference is vital to the safe and successful transportation of goods from the manufacturer to their end destination.

Freight forwarders move freight from one destination to another, be via road, rail, air or ocean.  Third party logistics companies may perform freight forwarding services simply by providing their common services: moving, storing and processing inventory. Both services relieve a company of managing the minutia of transportation, its paperwork, changing of freight providers, adhering to regulations and for some, paying of duties.

Freight forwarders specialize in the moving of freight.  They are experts in this part of the overall supply chain.  Freight forwarders are not always the transportation companies themselves (although they can be), but more often than not contract with various carriers to ensure maximum options for their clients.  Freight forwarders may choose to work both domestically and globally, therefore working with all modes of transport.  Or they may choose to specialize even further and only work within the domestic space or international space.

Third party logistic providers help move the cargo as mentioned above, but then add extra services, such as storing cargo between transport steps and processing shipments.  Many clients ship their cargo from arrival to various warehouse or distribution centers.  3PL Companies will take items from the transport vehicle and package it with an invoice per each client drop off.  Like a freight forwarder, 3PL providers also work with various authorities and carriers to process paperwork, waybills and invoices as well as paying any fees on behalf of the client.

Both providers will perform the necessary service of ensuring cargo arrives in good condition and meets all regulations and any duties or fees are paid.  But 3PL Providers will perform additional services based on client need.  There is a need for both in the supply chain and deciding which is best is based on company needs, budget, current orders and forecasts.  As with any other service provider, the company must first perform an internal analysis to see what is truly needed and where possible cost savings by outsourcing will come.

Many clients may find that working with a freight forwarder partner who also provides 3PL services is a beneficial way to manage transportation needs when working with an outside vendor.  Knowing that basic freight needs will be accomplished, but there is also the option to add services creates a value added benefit.

What is PO Management ?

Purchase order management is an internal business function. Companies use a purchasing process to acquire inventories, operational assets and other items needed to produce goods or services. Purchase orders represent an process that gives specific instructions for purchasing different resources.it is well-defined purchase order process. purchase order management policies are created to ensure employees follow standard operating procedures for this process.

What does a PO Management System Offer?

Purchase Order Monitoring

Vendor Compliance

Product Collection and Booking

Consolidation and Customs Loading

Real-Time Data

Upstream System Tracking

Order Management Bookings

Origin Pre-Distribution programs

This program allows importers to ship the product according to current market conditions without paying the re-handling costs of de-consolidation at destination.

Consolidation Services

Optimize container loading and shipment flow through consolidation of LCL shipments. Order to reflect demand reducing carrying costs, inventory levels, order to cash cycle, and transportation costs.

Vendor Liaison

Origin teams coordinate with vendors and/or buying offices to: Maintain purchase order database, coordinate vendor booking and equipment, meet delivery requirements and collect and follow-up with documents.

Purchase Order Management

Order Management captures Purchase Order (PO) details to 3 levels down from the PO (PO, Item, SKU [color/size]) to monitor booking, receiving and shipping. Information captured within Order Management and the subsequent reporting capabilities further enhance abilities to manage purchase orders and overall cargo flow. Customers can print container manifests & vessel summaries, query by buyer, DC, division and others. PO’s are received via EDI, or proprietary format.

Vendor Management

Order Management vendor management and vendor education programs educate vendors on Order Management practices and unique requirements of our customers. Clear communication and understanding operational and documentation requirements support a smooth supply chain. Additional vendor management programs are available.

Documentation

Order Management document services include preparation, collection, verification, dispatch and follow-up. Our staff can assist you with your commercial documentation needs.

Value Added

Origin services include: Ex-factory trucking, origin pre-distribution, production / assembly visibility, bar coding, GOH, ticketing, labeling, scanning, facilitation of inspection space, multiple country consolidation, sample forwarding, DC bypass loads, sea-air conversion and others.

Warehouse Operations

Read more at: http://www.pomanagement.net